SSL stands for Secure Socket Layer and provides a way for transactions to be processed securely over the Internet without the threat of interception by an unauthorized party. Many online merchants use what is called an SSL Certificate to ensure that their customer’s information is entered securely into the website through the browser.
How SSL Works
SSL is set up to communicate with the consumer’s browser which checks the SSL certificate to make sure the website you are communicating with is the actual site instead of a site that someone is using to intercept your information. SSL Codes are capable of determining the type of encryption that is needed for each browser and the type of server that is being used.
SSL codes enable the browser and the server to communicate with one another so that the information can be effectively encrypted when it is sent over the Internet. When the server and the browser communicate with one another, the browser will display an encryption icon which looks like a padlock in the upper portion of your browser screen. .
What is an SSL Certificate?
An SSL certificate is a purchase by the merchant from a certificate vendor and requires a Certificate Signing Request to be generated on the Web server. This means the merchant has to communicate with their Web host provider to obtain a Certificate Signing Request. This is why it is important not to use a free Web hosting service because they do not usually process CSRs.
Merchants use SSL certificates to ensure that the information that is shared by their customers is effectively encrypted. SSL certificates also ensure that the secure pages are pulled up as https:// instead of http:// which communicates to the user that the page is encrypted and provides data security.
A few Web host providers also provide SSL certificates that are shared between the merchant and the Web host company. This eliminates the need for merchants to set up their own SSL certificate to secure their website and provide data security.
An SSL certificate requires your Web hosting account to have its own IP address which is sometimes an added charge for the merchant. Some Web host providers will include a unique IP address in the hosting package for the account.
The Importance of SSL Certificates
If you own an online store it is very important to obtain an SSL certificate if you want your customers to trust your website. Without an SSL certificate anyone can view the information that is being entered and submitted to your site. This includes the information your customers enter when they sign up for information on your website. Additionally it is important to research the SSL certificate provider to ensure they are a reputable operation.